Local News Archives for 2013-07

Bend Police Looking for Person of Interest in Downtown Bend House Fires

The fires broke out just after 12:30 on Wednesday.  Firefighters were able to put the fires out within an hour, but nearby homes and apartments were evacuated while they fought the blaze.

 

Police are looking for 38 year old Sarah Gardner.  She's 5'6" and was last seen wearing black shorts, a brown shirt and carrying bags.

 

The house fires occurred within one block of each other and authorites believe they're related.  One was at Colorado and Harriman and the other was at Hillsdale and Delaware.

 

Police say if you know where Sarah Gardner is to please notify them.  They want to talk with her about the fires.

NBA Player Arrested for Stomping on Homeless Man

NBA PLAYER ARRESTED IN DOWNTOWN PORTLAND AFTER STOMPING ON A HOMELESS MAN


News Release from Portland Police Bureau
Posted on FlashAlert: July 31st, 2013 11:08 AM

Photo/sound file: /images/news/2013-07/3056/66366/Terrence_Alexander_Jones_21.jpg
 

On Wednesday July 31, 2013, at 2:04 a.m., Central Precinct officers arrested 21-year-old Terrence Alexander Jones in Old Town after Jones was seen stomping on a sleeping homeless man's leg. After the arrest, officers learned that Jones is currently on the roster of the Houston Rockets NBA team.

A sergeant patrolling the area saw a large group of people exit the Tube nightclub, located at 18 Northwest 3rd Avenue, and spill out into the street and sidewalk. An officer patrolling the area used a PA system to tell the crowd to get out of the street and get back onto the sidewalk. The sergeant pulled around the block to assist in case there was any further crowd issue.

While watching the group walk away from the bar, the sergeant observed a man, later identified as Terrence Jones, walk by a doorway where two homeless men were sleeping. Jones yelled, "Wake up," then raised his leg and stomped down on one of the mens legs. The men were sleeping in the doorway of 114 Northwest 3rd Avenue.

Officers contacted Jones among the group of approximately eight people about a half a block away and took him into custody.

The victim, 46-year-old Daniel John Kellerher, received a minor leg injury and did not require immediate medical attention.

Jones was transported to Central Precinct then to the Multnomah County Jail on a charge of Harassment.

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Deschutes County Fair Traffic Advisory

The Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo: Wednesday, July 31 and runs through Sunday, August 3. 

 

 

Daily attendance is anticipated to be approximately 40,000 per day, which brings significant traffic congestion to the area surrounding the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center.

The Redmond Police Department – in cooperation with the Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo, Redmond Public Works, and Oregon Department of Transportation – will be working to minimize traffic delays. Motorists are reminded to give themselves extra time and expect significant delays, especially leaving the fairgrounds around closing times.

We encourage people to take advantage of free shuttles with service to and from Mountain View High School (Bend), Sisters Elementary School, and Redmond High School. You can find the schedule online at:

http://expo.deschutes.org/images/uploads/Free2013FairBusSchedule.pdf

 

 

 

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden Pushes for Legislation That He Says Will Lower Healthcare Costs

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon has introduced legislation that he believes will help do that.  It would make the Medicare claims database more transparent.

 

He says it would help people compare what they're getting for their healthcare dollars.

 

"And my sense is the day you make public the medicare databse, you would have a new baseline for healthcare all over the country.  If someone has an employer based plan or an HSA, you could look at what medicare is paying in their area for the services and you'd have that comparison and you can look at whether the services are out of sync."

 

Senator Wyden's legislation was introduced in the senate last month and a companion bill was introduced in the House last week.

 

 

OEA in Bend

OEA President Hanna Vaandering knows that these are tough times for schools.

 

"One of the big challenges is understanding the realities in our schools.  There's a lot of conversation about bad teachers in our classrooms.  But the real conversation needs to be what's going on in our schools -- great things every day.  Through professional growth, we are giving them the tools to inform and insure that there's a great educator in every classroom."

 

More than 400 teachers from around the state are attending the conference through Thursday.

Browns Creek Fire Update

Crews are now focusing on mopping up the fire.

 

All evacuated areas are now reopened, except for the Sheep Bridge Campground -- which remains closed.

 

Forest Road 42 also remains closed, but people are being escorted in to retrieve their belongings.

OSP investigates Bend Poaching Case

Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public's help to identify the suspect(s) involved in a Bend-area poaching incident after two dead deer were found Tuesday morning northeast of the Bend city limits. A reward is offered by the Oregon Hunters Association Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) Reward Program for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this investigation.

On July 30, 2013 at approximately 9:30 a.m., a Bend city employee reported finding two dead deer on the entrance to BLM property at the end of McGrath Road north of the Bend Municipal Airport. Initial investigation indicates the two buck deer were shot with a small caliber firearm within the last 24 hours at a separate location and transported in an unidentified vehicle to the dump site where they were found.

A reward of up to $500 is being offered by the Oregon Hunters Association TIP Reward Program for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Turn-in-Poacher TIP line at 1-800-452-7888 or Sergeant Lowell Lea at (541) 633-2240 or email Lowell.lea@state.or.us.

More information about the Turn-In-Poachers Program is available at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/FW/Pages/f_w_tip.aspx

 

OSP Asking for more Witnesses to Fatal Hwy 97 Crash

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers investigating a July 19, 2013, double fatal traffic crash that occurred along Highway 97 about seven miles north of Madras are seeking additional witnesses who may have left the scene bef ore troopers could identify and interview them. Any witnesses not contacted and interviewed are asked to contact OSP.

To date, OSP troopers identified and interviewed only one witness who remained at the scene and they believe there were others. To help generate contact from other witnesses, OSP is releasing two photographs obtained from arriving troopers' in-car video systems. The two photographs show a white commercial truck stopped on the southbound shoulder just south of the crash scene that left before troopers could confirm if its driver was a witness. Troopers weren't able to clearly identify the company name, and the vehicle license plate, possibly white in color, appears to be non-Oregon issued.

On July 19, 2013 at approximately 5:30 p.m., a commercial truck was traveling southbound along Highway 97 near milepost 89 when a group of traffic began passing. One of the passing vehicles, a rented 2013 Subaru Legacy four-door driven by WARREN CHESTER WARD, age 91, from Chula Vista, California, had insufficient clearance to complete the pass and collided head-on with a 1991 Ford Explorer with two occupants. Both vehicles came to rest along the side of the highway where a small fire started in the front section of the Subaru. The fire was extinguished by firefighters before it spread into the car's interior.

The crash resulted in the death WARD and other Ford's driver, HAROLD M. CURTIS, age 71, from Antelope, Oregon. A 68-year old female passenger in the Ford received non-life threatening injuries.

Any witnesses not previously contacted and interviewed about this fatal traffic crash investigation are urged to call Trooper Justin Lane at (541) 388-6213 ext. 5128.

 

Bend Home Destroyed in Fire

A home in Deschutes River Woods was destroyed Friday afternoon; and other homes threatened as wind whipped the flames towards the tinder dry nearby brush.

 

Around 3:30p.m., Bend Fire arrived to the scene on Apache Road and found a home owned by Shane and Jennifer Haller fully engulfed. 

 

Crews were able to surround and contain the fire, but Apache and Cinder Butte Roads and a portion of Baker Road were shut down while authorities fought the fire.

 

Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki says the fire was extinguished; but crews will be on the scene through today to make sure the fire remains out.  The cause of the fire is found to be electrical - possibly from an appliance plug.

 

The damage is estimated at $300,000. The homeowners were not home at the time.

Congressman Greg Walden on 1110 KBND Live at 8:40a

Media advisory on Walden's local visit: 

 

 

Greg Walden to focus on health care, economic development in Central Oregon on Friday 

BEND — U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.) will be in Central Oregon on Friday to hear input from Bend physicians about the new health care law and to discuss economic development at the Madras Airport.

In the morning, Walden will meet with anesthesiologists and other doctors at St. Charles Hospital to hear their perspective of Obamacare as the new law goes into effect. In recent visits to Central Oregon—including a health care forum in May; town hall meetings in Bend, La Pine, Madras, and Prineville; and community business leader meetings in Sisters, Redmond, and Bend—Walden has heard many concerns about the new health care law, changes to Medicare, and other changes to Oregon’s health care system. As a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Walden has a key role in oversight of the law.

In the afternoon, Walden will meet with Erickson Aviation at the Madras Airport to learn more about their expansion plans and to give an update on his work to create jobs in Central Oregon.

Friday, July 26, 2013

What:            Health Care Roundtable with Central Oregon Doctors 
When:            
8:00 am  11:00 am
Where:          St. Charles Hospital, 2500 NE Neff Road, Bend 


What:             Meeting with Erickson Aviation at Madras Airport 
When:            
2:00 pm  
Where:          Madras Airport, 2028 NW Airport Way, Madras

 

Fire Updates, huge change in size of Sunnyside Turnoff Fire

News releases below:

 

 

Sunnyside Turnoff Fire Daily Update

July 24, 2013 (8 a.m.)

The Sunnyside Turnoff Fire is now 45,491 acres according to an infrared (IR) flight flown early this morning.  The fire is located on lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs east of U.S. Highway 26 near Warm Springs, Oregon. The large change in acreage from yesterday is primarily due to an omission of the areas burned in the first several days of the fire.  Actual growth yesterday was about 5,800 acres, primarily along the N-NW perimeter. 

 Containment of the fire is now 40%.  The fire moved further into the Mutton Mountains in the last 24 hours but remains south of the S-330 road and east of the S-110 road along the western perimeter.  The remainder of the fire stayed northeast of Upper Dry Creek road, and north and west of the Deschutes River.

An initial evacuation notice (Level 1) was given last night by tribal police to residents in the Schoolie Flats area adjacent to the northwest flank of the fire.  This alert means residents should be aware of fire risk in their area and begin to prepare for evacuation in the event that conditions worsen.

 

Night operations made good progress preparing control lines and conducting burnout operations to contain the fire along the northern perimeter.

 

Today's suppression activities will continue to focus on improving and/or establishing defendable containment lines along the NW to NE flanks.  Hand crews, dozers, and engines will utilize existing roads where possible and build additional hand and dozer lines as needed.  Burnout may also be used to improve containment in these areas.  Type 1, 2 and 3 helicopters will continue  to support suppression activities. Remaining perimeters will be in patrol and monitor status. Contingencies continue to be developed in the event the fire crosses east of the Deschutes River.

Fire growth is again anticipated to continue primarily to the north into the Mutton Mountains due to hot temperatures, low relative humidities, and afternoon N-NW winds up to 15 miles per hour.  Overnight humidity recovery was low and continues to affect continued growth.

There are currently 565 resources assigned to suppressing the fire, on both night and day shifts.

For most updated boating and camping information, visit www.boaterpass.com or contact the Prineville Bureau of Land Management (BLM) 541-416-6700.

********************************************************************

FIRE NEWS--Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center

For Immediate Release:  July 24, 2013  10:30 a.m.

  Website: www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/fire

 

 

Lower Deschutes River and Stagecoach Fire Update

           

Central Oregon – As of 6 p.m. yesterday evening the Lower Deschutes River re-opened to rafting and camping. The Sunnyside Turnoff Fire is burning on lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs is not contained. Rafters should be aware that if conditions change and the fire moves toward the river again, the BLM could implement another emergency closure. Anyone floating through should be aware of helicopters using the river to dip buckets and should stay away from these operations. Rafters should also use caution when hiking or camping in an area that has recently burned as there may still be hotspots, root-holes, rolling rocks or other hazards.

 

Firefighters in northern Klamath County continue to make good progress on the Stagecoach Fire burning about 8 miles northeast of Gilchrist, Oregon. The fire acreage remains at 330 acres with last night’s shift working to improve the line around the perimeter of the fire. The fire is still 10 percent contained due to some active fire behavior along the fireline and occasional torching within the fire perimeter yesterday.

 

A Red Flag Warning is in effect until 8 p.m. tonight for high temperatures and low relative humidity. In addition, a lightning storm may reach Central Oregon today. Firefighters will remain on alert for wind and other effects to the fire as this system passes through the area. 

 

More than 160 firefighters continue to suppress the fire today, mopping up hotspots and holding and improving the containment line. Resources include two hotshot crews, two type 2 hand crews, 17 engines, two dozers, five water tenders and 22 miscellaneous overhead personnel. Members of the public who do not live in the area are asked to stay away to avoid impacting fire traffic and suppression efforts.

 

The Prineville BLM, Walker Range Fire Protection Association and the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office will be holding a public meeting this evening to discuss the current fire situation and to offer the public an opportunity to learn more about the fire suppression process for the Stagecoach Fire. The meeting will be from 6 – 7 p.m. at the Oregon Outback Fire Department at 13099 Sun Forest Drive (off of Hwy 31).

 

The fire was determined to be human-caused. Two individuals were illegally residing on BLM-administered lands and left a cooking fire unattended. The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office arrested the male suspect, Kelly Parker, on charges of first degree arson. Any specific inquiries should be directed to the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office. Forest Service, BLM and Sheriff Officials want to remind people that residency on public lands is illegal. In addition, with conditions getting hotter and drier, everyone should use extreme caution while recreating, make sure fires are completely extinguished when not being watched and to follow all fire restrictions.  

#          #          #

Republican Lawmaker Dennis Richardson runs for Governor

A longtime Republican lawmaker just announced a few minutes ago (8 am) that is he running for governor.

 

State Representative Dennis Richardson of Central Point is in Medford right now (around 8a), travels to Eugene around 10a and then will be in Bend at 12:30a at Pioneer Park.

His last stop on the statewide tour is in Portland at 4:30.

 

Deschutes County political leader and insider Troy Reinhart says Richardson is a candidate who will probably appeal to Central Oregon voters- 

 

He has 8 daughters and one son, is a vietnam war veteran and an attorney for 30 years.  The Republican primary race for Governor is in May of 2014, and the general is in November.

 

"Dennis Richardson is well-known in the Rep. party - in a Ronald Reagan mold- fiscally conservative- popular newsletter- well respected- well spoken - better than average chance of winning the nomination. "

 

 

Stage Coach fire Human Caused

Progress Made on Stagecoach Fire; Evacuation Order Lifted

 

Central Oregon – Firefighters made good progress on the Stagecoach Fire yesterday and the evacuation order for two subdivisions was lifted around 10:30 p.m. The fire is currently being mapped and is considered 350 acres. The fire is still 10 percent contained this morning.

 

The Stagecoach Fire started at 3:30 yesterday afternoon five miles south of the Highway 97/Highway 31 junction, near the Old Stagecoach Road (approximately 8 miles northeast of Gilchrist, Oregon).

 

The cause of the fire is human; however, the specific cause remains under investigation.

 

Approximately 65 firefighters are currently fighting the fire. A dozer has put a preliminary line around the fire and crews will work to hold and improve this line throughout the day. Firefighters will also work to locate any spots outside the fireline. A Type 3 Incident Management Team took over command of the fire at 0600 this morning.

 

In addition to the Stagecoach Fire, the Prineville BLM is closing a portion of the Lower Deschutes River as a precaution against the Sunnyside Turnoff Fire on the Warm Springs Reservation. The fire has burned down to the river and has the potential to jump the river endangering rafters. As a result, the Lower Deschutes River is closed from the Warm Springs put-in (River Mile 98) to Nena (River Mile 59). Rafters can use their boater pass for Segments 2,3 and 4 today instead. The closure is temporary and will be lifted as soon as possible.

 

 

-end-

25,000 acres for Warm Springs Fire

The fire burning on the Warm Springs Indian reservation is the largest in the northwest right now – Fire officials say it has grown and burned down one structure- it is now estimated at 25,000 acres.

A big concern for this afternoon are winds that could cause the fire to run -  about 120 people who live in subdivisions in that area have been evacuated from their homes – An evacuation center has been set up.
One old un-inhabited homestead in the Charlie canyon  area burned down. Fire bosses are asking any people or drivers there to watch for equipment and fire crews. 
Three air tankers and helicopters are also attacking the flames.

Warm Springs Brush Fire Spreading

A major response is underway by Central Oregon fire agencies to assist with a brushfire on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation that has already spread over thousands of acres.  This human-caused fire was discovered around 10 AM this morning (Saturday) and had spread over 5000 to 7000 acres by late this afternoon.  According to Assistant Fire Manager William Wilson, the fire has closed Highway 3 on the reservation between Holiday Way and Highway 8.  Officials expect it to grow to 10,000 to 12,500 acres of rangeland.  There were some evacuations along Dry Creek Road and in the Dry Creek Campground.  As of 6 PM, there have been no injuries and no structures burned.

River Rescue Saved Redmond Man

A Redmond man is alive today, thanks to the Swift Water Rescue Team from Deschutes County Search and Rescue.

 

Duncan Girard, 38, was floating on the Deschutes River around 2:50 p.m., in an inner tube when he fell off, getting wedged between 2 rocks near Grubstake Way in the Odin Falls Subdivision in Redmond Friday afternoon.

 

Battalion Chief Jon Wood with Redmond Fire and Rescue says Girard was tubing with Rroy Monroe, 48, also of Redmond, who was able to call 911 to report the fall.

 

When Redmond Fire and Rescue Paramedics and the Deschutes County Sheriff Rescue Teams responded, they found Girard barely keeping his head above water; he actually went under water several times.

 

Rescuers were able to attach a harness to Girard and pull him to the riverbank.  Girard suffered minor injuries.

 

He said the strong undercurrent kept pushing his legs under the big rocks, but he was able to stand on his toes to keep his head above water.

 

Authorities say alcohol is not a factor in this incident.

Two Die in Madras Crash

Two men die in a head on crash that closed Highway 97 north of Madras for several hours Friday night around 5:30.

 

Apparently a commercial truck was traveling near milepost 89 when a group of vehicles began passing; but one of the vehicles did not have enough clearance to complete the pass and collided head on with another vehicle.

 

The two male drivers died at the scene.  An elderly female passenger in one of the vehicles was injured and taken to St. Charles-Madras with unspecified injuries.

 

One of the vehicles reportedly caught fire, sparking a small brush fire that the Jefferson County Fire District Number 1 was able to extinguish.

 

The victims' identities are expected to be released on Sunday.

 

Highway 97 was closed for about 2 hours; with the southbound lane reopening just before 8 p.m.  All lanes are now open, and the investigation is continuing.

Vacation Rental Owners Targeted for Bend Room Tax

City expands Transient Room Tax audit to include vacation rentals

 

The City of Bend is conducting an independent audit of Transient Room Tax (TRT) collection.  TRT is the tax paid when someone stays at a hotel, motel or rental property in Bend.  This year, the audit will be expanded to include vacation rental properties that are not registered with the City in an effort to increase awareness and compliance with the TRT code.  These types of rental properties are typically advertised on websites like VRBO, Craigslist and AirBnB.  Currently, 189 vacation rental properties are registered with the City and are collecting and remitting TRT taxes.

 

The City has contracted with an independent firm, MuniServices, specializing in tax compliance audits for local governments, to perform a compliance audit and establish a comprehensive list of vacation rentals currently out of compliance with the TRT code.  The audit is scheduled to take place through August.  Following this initial audit, the City will continue efforts to enforce TRT compliance amongst rental properties. 

 

If you own a vacation rental and are currently not registered or unaware of the City’s TRT code, please visit bendoregon.gov/roomtax.

Public feedback needed on Central Oregon Bike Trail

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department seeks public comment on designation of scenic trail in central Oregon

 

Bend, OR – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will hold an open house July 29 to receive public comment on the proposed designation of the Kiwa Butte/Dina Moe Humm Trail as a State Designated Regional Scenic Trail. The trail is primarily used for mountain biking and is located southwest of Bend.

 

The open house will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Visit Bend Office at 750 NW Lava Rd., Suite 160 in Bend. The feedback gathered will be used to assist the Oregon Recreation Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) in making a recommendation to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission.

 

The State Trail designation program was established in 1971 as part of the Recreational Trails Act to promote Oregon’s scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Oregon Regional Trails are non-motorized trails that provide close-to-home recreation opportunities while connecting communities, recreation sites, schools, and other destinations or trails. Regional trails must be more than five miles in length, open to the public, substantially complete, and located on public lands or right-of-way easements.

 

For more information about the Kiwa Butte/Dina Moe Humm Trail, or to submit a comment on the designation, contact Kent Howes (vice-chair of ORTAC) at 541-550-9433 or Rocky Houston (OPRD State Trails Coordinator) at 503-986-0750.

 

Fugutive Found in 16 year old Oregon DUII Fatal Crash

A case that had gone cold got a breath of new life sixteen years later - a woman, wanted since a 1997 fatal traffic crash on Interstate 5 north of Albany, was located in Manitoba, Canada.

 

The fugitive, who was living under an assumed name, was lodged yesterday afternoon in the Linn County Jail.

 

Oregon State Police say 54 year old JEAN TERESE KEATING was indicted by a Grand Jury in June 1997 for Manslaughter in the First Degree, DUII, Reckless Driving, and three counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person. The 1997 crash killed a 65 year old woman from Dexter, Oregon.

 

KEATING was awaiting trial when in March of 1998 her attorney said he lost contact and was concerned she had "flown the coop". she was tracked down recently by police after allegedly "bragging" about getting away with the fatal DUII crash.

 

***************************************************************************

 

Here's the complete news release from the Oregon State Police:

 

 

A case that had gone cold got a breath of new life sixteen years later when a woman, wanted since a 1997 fatal traffic crash on Interstate 5 north of Albany, was located in Manitoba, Canada and is now in custody in Oregon. The wanted fugitive, who was living under an assumed name, was lodged Thursday afternoon, July 18, 2013, in the Linn County Jail after fleeing Oregon and several years later being found and taken into custody in Canada.

JEAN TERESE KEATING, age 54, is being held in custody pending appearance in Linn County Circuit Court following a Grand Jury indictment in June 1997 for Manslaughter in the First Degree, DUII, Reckless Driving, and three counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person.

The indictment was issued following an OSP investigation into a fatal traffic crash that occurred Sunday afternoon, April 13, 1997 on Interstate 5 near milepost 237. A vehicle driven by KEATING, who was 38 at the time and residing in Milwaukie, Oregon, was northbound when it sideswiped another vehicle driven by Jewel Oline Anderson, age 65, from Dexter. Anderson lost control of her vehicle and crossed through the center median where her vehicle was involved in a collision with another vehicle. Anderson was pronounced deceased at the scene. KEATING was not injured and the other involved driver received non-life threatening injuries.

KEATING was awaiting trial when in March 1998 her attorney said he lost contact and was concerned she had "flown the coop". The Linn County Circuit Court issued a bench warrant for her arrest and it was entered in the Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) databases.

During the years since she went missing, dead-end tips were received and OSP troopers who investigated the fatal crash had retired. But, the victim's family and law enforcement didn't stop trying to find KEATING who was never reported by her family as missing to law enforcement. OSP Sergeant Eric Judah and Detective Howard Greer, who in 2008 took this as a cold case while working as a patrol trooper in Albany, continued to look into any tips that came to light.

In early 2013, OSP received information that a police officer in Manitoba, Canada, had found KEATING after following up on information that a woman was at a bar talking about getting away with a DUII-involved fatal crash in the United States several years ago. After identifying who the woman was based upon a past DUII arrest in Canada, the police officer in Manitoba got her fingerprints in Canada and had a comparison match run with fingerprints in the United States' database. Positive identification was made and OSP was notified KEATING was in Manitoba, Canada.

On April 8, 2013, a member of the Canadian Immigration Division detained KEATING and took her into custody pending a deportation hearing. A Deportation Order was issued April 18. On June 13, OSP was notified KEATING was in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service in North Dakota where she was held until her return to Oregon.

After confirmation she was back in U.S. custody, OSP notified the family of victim Jewel Anderson. They provided the following statement to OSP to share with the media and public:

"While there is no price to be put on repayment for taking a life, and it certainly won't bring Jewel back, we are thankful that finally after 16 years of her running, hiding and torment, our families will have some closure; knowing that Teresa Jean Keating is in custody and justice will be served.

In the past 16 years we have felt hurt, betrayed, confused and most of all a void in our lives. We have missed her not getting to be at all our happy occasions like graduations, weddings, births, birthdays and many more.

Jewel was the sweetest woman anyone has ever known; a mother, sister, aunt, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a stranger to no one and loved holidays, family gatherings like picnics and reunions and traveling. Her home was home to anyone, and she would help anyone that needed down to her last dime or the shirt off her back. Above all, she loved her family and God.

One single action can have a tremendous impact. What happened on April 13, 1997 was a truly devastating event; not only for our family but for the people in the second vehicle involved in the accident, and I'm sure Teresa's family as well. However to call this an accident would be an outright lie - the act of getting behind the wheel of that car by Teresa Jean Keating was very much intentional. Where she was going, what she was thinking - all that is irrelevant - too drunk to drive, is too drunk to drive. All of our families have suffered a tremendous loss."

Note: Questions about upcoming court appearance should be directed to Linn County District Attorney's Office on Friday, July 19. Deputy District Attorney Ryan Lucke is handling the case.

***

OSP thanks the following agencies for their help during this matter:

* Citizenship and Immigration Canada
* Canada Border Services Agency
* Royal Canadian Mounted Police
* Manitoba, Canada police
* U.S. Marshals Service
* Linn County District Attorney's Office
* Linn County Sheriff's Office
* OSP Criminal Investigations Division and Patrol Services Division


 

Bend LaPine Superintendent Recommending Bear Creek Elementary Principal Be Fired

The school district placed Matt Montoya on paid adminsitrative leave last month while they conducted an investigation on him, but won't say what it involves because its a personnel matter.

 

Bear Creek parent Cricket Daniel learned of the latest development from Montoya recently.

 

"I did receive an email from Matt Montoya stating that at the school board next Tuesday, July 23rd, there will be an open forum for parents to show up and then the school board will go behind clsoed doors. I think he'd appreciate the support from parents who want to see Mr. Montoya stay at the helm at Bear Creek."

 

Matt Montoya has been the principal at Bear Creek for three years.

 

In late June, more than 100 parents rallied in support of him during the last school district discussion about possibly getting rid of him.

 

The school board meeting that will decide Montoya's fate is next Tuesday July 23rd.

Bend Hiker Suffers Non Life Threatening Injuries in a Fall Off South Sisters

33 year old Oliver Austin fell around noon on Wednesady and his hiking partner called for help.

 

A total of 15 volunteer search and rescue members and two Deshcutes County Sheriff's Office Deputies assisted in the rescue.

 

Initially, Austin was knocked unconscious for a short period after the fall, but then regained consciousness.

 

Air Link transported him to St. Charles for treatment.

Military Fire Contained South of Chemult

It started around 2 p.m. on Wednesday and the Department of Transportation had to shut down the highway -- in both directions for sevearl hours.

 

Erica Hupp is with the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership.

 

"The fire is named the military fire.  It is under investigation, we don't know what started it.  It's burning in private timber and brushland along U.S. 97.  We figure it's about 22 miles south of Chemult and 44 miles north of Klamath Falls."

 

The fire burned ten acres.

 

South Central Oregon is under a high fire danger.  Local fire officials wants to remind the public to be carful when camping and how you dispose of your cigarettes.

Sisters City Councilors Appear Ready to Offer Interim City Manager the Permanent Job

Gorayeb stepped in three months ago when former city manager Eileen Stein resigned.

 

City Councilor David Asson had some concerns when Gorayeb initially expressed some interest in the permanent job - -but now feels he's the man for the post.

 

"Based on his performance and a lot of discussion with community leaders, it appears those concerns were overstated and I am now convinced in this matter it'l  be good for Sisters."

 

Asson says he was concerned the search for a new permanent city manager would not be transparent enough.

 

But feels the last several months have shown Gorayeb is a good fit for the job.

Water Source for Bend Named

The Bend City Council unanimously approved naming the municipal surface water source after a much loved former city employee.

 

The water source will soon be called "Prowell Springs" after Roger Prowell, a city employee who went above and beyond to monitor and protect the watershed and source springs for all Bend residents.

 

Public Works Director Paul Rheault described his recent meeting with Prowell.

 

 

"I met with him, his family, close friend and we talked about this. We presented him with a picture of the springs, and we also gave him a booklet with all the copied of all the letters of support to have the springs named after him. It was a pleasure to meet him and see his family and to see how important this was to Roger."

 

The Council approved informally naming the springs after Prowell, as well as applying to the Oregon Geographic Names Board to formally rename the springs.

Voices on Mirror Pond at Bend Council Meeting

Tuesday’s Mirror Pond meeting with Bend Parks and Rec spilled into Wednesday night's Bend City Council meeting, as residents took an opportunity to speak their piece.

 

Bend resident Foster Fell urged the council to support wide spread approval of how the project should proceed.

 

"But we do know we have a range of options evolved by the Mirror Pond project. These choices are unlikely to change over time. Since these options were developed through public funding the public should be permitted to votes on which of the options it prefers."

 

Fell also suggested that high school students in Bend should get to vote on the issue, because they will be responsible for the future.

 

Susan Crosby, who has lived across from the park for over 43 years, wants to keep Mirror Pond just as it is.

 

"Drake Park was developed around the pond. Its rock walls and walkways define its graceful edges. If the park and the pond are separated, Bend will lose much of what makes it such a special place.  As an environmentalist, I appreciate wild and natural rivers, but Mirror Pond is Bend's icon and we must not let it go."

 

Crosby went on to ask the council to choose Councilor Doug Knight to be on the Mirror Pond Steering Committee, because of his engineering background and community involvement in the neighborhood.

 

But the Council chose to appoint Councilors Marc Capell and Victor Chudowsky to the committee, because they had been working on the project since January. 

Pacific Power Officials Speculate on What They Plan to Do with Newport Avenue Dam

And that makes it difficult to figure out what should be done with  Mirror Pond.

 

Bob Gravely is a spokesman for Pacific Power.

 

"We're at a place where we know we have a 100 year old faciliity they probably won't remain economically viable for a lot longer . What would typically happen is we would remove the dam or sell it to a third party. But since it's located in the downtown area, we were very much interested in seeing the community process play out."
 

 

Pacific Power officals had said they were not going to make any decision about the dam, until the  heard from the community about what it wanted to do with Mirror Pond.

Latest Results on Mirror Pond Questionnaire Continue to Show a Divided Community

12-hundred hundred people filled out the survey and 47 percent want to remove the Newport Avenue Dam and 43 percent want to keep it.

 

City Councilor Mark Capell heard the presentation.

 

"I'm not surpirsed. I think the community is pretty well divided on what they think we ought to  do either dredge and keep the dam or remove the dam and turn it into a river. I think there's still a lot of work to be done to try and make that decision as a community."

 

Capell fees the community needs to know if Pacific Power plans in the near future to get rid of the dam.

 

He believes the issue will ultimately go to the voters to decide which direction we should take.

A Red Flag warning for Fire Crews in Oregon and Washington

The Box Springs Fire about 25 miles northeast of Prineville (burning in Jefferson County) is now estimated at 240 acres.  Smoke from the wild fire has been drifting into Prineville and affecting drivers and people with health problems.  Tracy Wrolson is with the Oregon Department of Forestry:

 

"What we're dealing with is some very broken and steep terrain- the fire is 100 percent lined- but we're dealing with some spotting - that's our main concern - and we're expecting some lightning in that area this afternoon. again."

 

Wrolson says about 350 fire fighters are tackling the lightning sparked blaze that started when a lightning storm moved through the area a few days ago.

 

A small fire was also reported Tuesday morning at the La Pine State Park.  The fire was less than an acre as of Tuesday afternoon, and fire officials did not know what started it.

 

Hot temperatures and thunderstorms have wildland fire fighters on alert with a Red Flag warning in Oregon and Washington.

         

"We’ve got red flag warnings for Northeastern Oregon, starting in central oregon and going up to into Washington as well."

 

Jerri Mills, at the northwest coordination center says the thunderstorms won't have much rain, so any lightning caused fires could spread. 

 

They'll position crews in the areas where the storms are expected to hit so they can respond faster.   They're also concerned that strong winds from the storms will cause current fires to explode in size.

 

 

Many Drivers and Businesses to be impacted soon by Highway Project

The early stages of a major construction project in southwest Bend will start soon.

 

Starting in the next few weeks, Oregon Department of Transportation crews will be doing sewer work in the Pinebrook and Brookswood Boulevard area.  Then after that, the larger distruption starts:

 

"Then here in a month or 2 we're going to be closing that off bound ramp there for traffic coming from Sunriver or La Pine into Business 97. so people will no longer to make that left hand turn- some detours coming up and we'll be getting some information out to the public." 

 

ODOT Community Relations spokesman Rex Holloway says he is working closely with businesses in that area so they can give their customers advice on ways to navigate the construction work near their stores.

 

Oregon High Desert Classic Expected to Bring Thousands to Bend in the Next Couple Weeks

The horse show is in its 25th year and is the largest horse show in the northwest.

 

Diane Johnson has been coordinating the High Desert Classic since the beginning.  She says 13 hundred horses wil l be here during the next couple weeks.

 

"The demographics of what they figure is three people for each horse.  We're kind of quiet about this event, but that's a lot of people for the next two weeks. 85 percent of the people are coming from out of the area and they eat, play, shop and sleep here.  It brings in a tremendous amount of money to the city of Bend."

 

Four thousand peopel are expected to travel to Bend for the two week Oregon High Desert Classic.  It will start this Wednesday and run through Sunday July 28th.

 

It is the only fundraiser for J Bar J Youth Services -- that helps at risk youth.

Redmond Senior Center Looking for Volunteers for Meals on Wheels

The federal government cuts have contributed to the center's need for drivers for its "Meals on Wheels" program.

 

Sue Barker runs the center and is putting out a plea.

 

"And since the sequestration we have had our funding cut and  e have a need for senior volunteers who would feel enriched by helping seniors in need.  We need them to commit to be a driver for the Meals on Wheel's program one day a week."

 

Barker says the delivery should take less than two hours in the late morning.

 

The center is also looking for volunteers to help prepare the meals for seniors.  The food is prepared at the senior center and then served at area churches.  If you are interested, please call the Redmond Senior Center.

Bend City Councilor Feels the City Has To Do A Better Job of Setting Tax Request Priorities

Bend City Councilor Victor Chudowksy feels it's been too much and city leaders aren't looking at the big picture.

 

"I feel in such a system it's very difficult to set priorities.  We're going to face a fire department request or whether to dredge up Mirror Pond. But no one is looking at the big picture which one is a higher priority, which one can wait and which one is critical."

 

Chudowsky believes the city must do a better job of prioritizing these tax request and then go out to the voters for their approval.

City Club to Address Drones at This Week's Meeting

The panel will consider the economic impact of donoes and how they can be used to assits law enforcemnet in search and rescue and traffic issues.

 

Gary Meyer will moderate the discussion and he believes the forum will provide a lot of needed information on the subject.

 

"They are only aware of the stories the news carries which usually deal with warfare, but they're not aware of the incredible range of opportunity they present with search and rescue, avalanches, traffic and media.  It's just an effective use of resources.  Instead of sending 3 to 4 cars, a drone will fly by over instead of 3 to 4 cars and it will do a much better job about giving you an idea of the situation."

 

The City Club discussion called "Drones at Home" is this Thursday at St. Charles starting at 11:30 a.m.

Cougar Found Dangerously Close to Child

A five year old Redmond child and family dog narrowly escapes an encounter with a cougar north of Redmond.

 

Sgt. Troy Gotchy with the Deschutes County Sheriff says around 9:20 Friday morning, a homeowner on Northwest Way reported her child was playing outside when the family dog began barking and would not stop.

 

The homeowner saw a cougar sitting on a branch of a nearby tree where the child was playing. She grabbed the child and contacted a neighbor, who came to the house and shot the cougar in the tree.

 

An Oregon State Police game trooper and ODF& W officer came to the scene, but did not file charges against the neighbor, as it was determined that the cat as about 100 pound male that posed a threat to the residents.

Grease Fire Damages Redmond Home

A grease fire causes about  $10,000 damage to a Redmond home around 8:30 Friday evening.

 

Redmond Fire Marshal Traci Cooper says grease was heated on the stove and left unattended, caught fire. 

 

The residents extinguished the fire with baking soda and took the pan outside but found the fire had spread to the microwave and cabinets.  They evacuated the home and called 911.

 

Redmond Fire and Rescue was able to put the fire out quickly.  The major damage is confined to the kitchen - but other parts of the house sustained smoke damage.  No one was injured.

La Pine Man Shot During Feud

A La Pine man is shot during an ongoing argument on Golden Astor Road Friday afternoon. 

 

Lt. Scott Beard with the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office says around 2:00p.m., a family member reported David Morehouse, 60 allegedly shot Charles Williams, 43, in the chest multiple times. 

 

Apparently, the men had an ongoing feud that got out of hand.  La Pine Fire Medics treated Williams at the scene before he was taken to St. Charles Bend by an AirLink helicopter where he remains in critical condition. 

 

The gun was secured, no longer with the suspect, who reportedly remained outside the home and taken into custody without incident. 

 

Morehouse is lodged in the Deschutes County Jail on several charges including attempted murder;  his bail is set at $355,000.

Hamby Road Brush Fire Brought Under Control Quickly

The fire broke out near a transient camp off of Hamby Road and quicly burned four acres before being controlled.

 

Deschutes County Sheriff Larry Blanton was out there.

 

"It was concerning initially because it started in some heavy juniper in some undeveloped property at or near a transient camp and it spread near some homes.  The fire department did a great job and they were able toget it out pretty quickly."

 

Sheriff Blanton says transient camps in the outskirts of  Bend, Redmond and Terrebonne are a problem.

The Room Tax Debate Prompts Possible Changes to the Visit Bend Board

Councilor Victor Chudowsky voted against putting the issue on the ballot and so did councilor Scott Ramsay.

 

Chudowsky isn't sure we need an increase -- and he also feels the Visit Bend board is too narrow.

 

He wants to see more voices at the table.

 

"One positive thing that has come out from this is a lot of people who haven't met and talked at length, did for the first time.  They had substantive conversations trying to understand other parties.  And they came out iwth a deep sense of satisfaction from the process -- a feeling of accomplishment that the conversation took place."

 

Chudowsky says the city council is looking to change the Visit Bend bylaws to increase the Visit Bend board to include more diverse members.

Free Lunch Program still Busy

BEND LA PINE SUPERINTENDENT SAYS THERE IS STILL A HIGH DEMAND FOR FREE AND REDUCED LUNCHES. 

 

With the local economy improving - how busy is the free summer lunch program? And how about free and reduced lunches during the school year?

 

Central oregon's economy is getting better - but some families continue to struggle. In fact- the Superintendent of Bend La Pine schools says they are still seeing a lot of kids who need help with free or reduced lunches...and the summer lunch program continues to be very busy-

 

"Summer lunch is a really important program- it helps them stay connected with the district and stay engaged..."

 

 

The free lunch program also focuses on a summer reading agenda.  Superintendent Ron Wilkinson was on FM 100.1 and 1110 KBND morning news on Monday.  Wilkinson says he hopes to see the numbers of struggling families drop soon as the economy improves.

Bend Tech Fest starts soon

MORE WASY TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER - HIGHLIGHTED AT THE BEND TECHNOLOGY FEST...

 

It's not quite The Jetsens yet, but we're getting close.  You'll see what we mean by that if you attend the free "Bend Technology Fest" taking place Friday and Saturday in downtown at the Oxford Hotel.

 

David Abbajay was on FM 100.1 and 1110 KBND this week.

 

"What we're focusing on this year is helping people maximize what they have in their house -..... its amazing how the cloud is helping us live better lives, like you said.

 

The free event is hosted by Abbajay Automated Control Systems.  It's on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to 6.

 

2013 Session Impacts City of Bend

BEND'S CITY MANAGER TALKS ABOUT THE 2013 SESSION'S IMPACT ON THE CITY...

 

The 2013 session is one for the history books - but now the impacts of those laws will soon be felt.  Bend City Manager Eric King says the PERS reform law (Senate Bill 822) that passed this session should save the city 1.3 million in pension costs during the next two years.

 

But much of that savings is reached by postponing a PERS payment, so King says they will probably not spend it.  Another effort was to bring more local control early on to land use planning-

 

"To try to provide more clarity - when people want to appeal a land use process - the bill didn't go through but we did get a "budget note" so the state agency has to consider that -- It's very frustrating for the city to take something to take it forward- and then people raise it at the end of the line- and we could've addressed it earlier and at the local level -- and that can really bog down the process."

 

King says lawmakers also paved the way for cities to access state money for special transportation projects other than state highways.  Projects that are important to the region, such as improvements to the Redmond Airport.

The Cost of Raising a Family in Bend

The Oregon Center for Public Policy just released statistics on the basic income levels needed to get by in the state.

 

They call it the "Basic Family Budget Calculator."

 

Juan Carlos Ordonex with the Oregon Center for Public Policy breaks down the latest numbers for families living in Bend.

 

"So it varies by family size, but two parents, one child in Bend $59,800 is needed to meet basic needs. For two parents, two children $64,600 roughly."

 

The calculator considers costs for housing, food, child care, transportation, healthcare and taxes.

 

Portland had the highest expenses for families requiring 62-thousand for parents and one child to nearly 69 thousand needed for a two parent two child family.

COCC Looks to Overcome Obstacles Involving State Funds

Ron Paradis with COCC says the funds that the college plans to use to pay off Cascades Hall, requires a funding match.

 

He says lawmakers and college leaders are looking at options.

 

"People are throwing out differnet ideas whether to go back and look if there's money in the lottery fund or find a different state level fund or use our partner OSU Cascades and raise funds for some kind of match.  We believe in the next year or so we'll come up with some solution to move forward."

 

Once the debt on Cascades Hall is paid off, COCC plans to use it for additional classrooms and to develop a student success center.

Bend City Council Sends TRT Question to Voters

 

The Bend City Council held possibly the shortest meeting on record Wednesday night, when they convened to vote on the Transient Room Tax increase question.

 

Mayor Pro-Tem Jodie Barram said the conversation was thorough.

 

"We got done in less than an hour actually had a very robust conversation about taxes and this resolution in particular. And I’m happy to share that it passed 5-2, and so the issue will go on the November ballot for the voters to decide the issue of whether or not to raise the room in bend."

 

Barram said a lot of credit goes to the negotiating team made up of those in the hospitality and tourism industries and local businesses - that hammered out a reasonable proposal for the voters.

 

The proposal will raise the TRT's by 1% next June (2014) and then another 4-tenths  (0.4) of a percent the following June (2015) to pay for police and fire services and tourism marketing.

 

COCC Gets State Funds from the State Legislature to Expand

The state funds will allow COCC to pay off the remainder of the debt owed for Cascades Hall on the Bend campus.

 

State Representative Jason Conger of Bend says this will allow COCC to add more classes and offices.

 

"There was also bonding authority for central Oregon Community College for five million.  And we're hoping we can connect that with OSU, hopefully we can get some efficiencies as OSU moves out of Cascades Hall on the COCC campus."

 

Once the Cascades Hall debt is paid off, COCC plans to add additional general calssrooms and develop a student success center for counseling, advising and tutoring services.

Warm Springs Voters Fail to Approve New Motorsports Park

The vote on Tuesday fell 47 votes short of the one third of all eligible voters requirement.

 

The same thing happened during an election back in May.  During both elections,  most voters voted for the proposal, but not by the quorum required for passage.

 

Jeff Anspach with Warm Springs Economic Development says they're tyring to diversify the economy.

 

"Up to this point, essentially the tribe owns one third of the Pelton Round Butte Dam complex, the mill, Kahneeta Resort and the casino on the highway.  They want to expand their economic base.  This is stuff the tirbe has done before, but this would take it to a new level, that's for sure."

 

The project would include a drag strip, road course, oval track and dirt track.

 

The 230 million dollar project would create more than 400 jobs during consturtion and 200 jobs during operation.

 

Anspach is frustrated by the failure, but doesn't know if they'll go out for a third time to get the proposal through.

Bank of Cascades Announces Klamath Falls Bank Purchase

 

Klamath Falls was on the verge of not having a community bank -

 

Monday - The Bank of the Cascades announced they would buy the AmericanWest branches associated with Klamath Falls. BOC President and CEO Terry Zink says community banks are a big part of any local economy-  and they hope to make a noticeable difference in Klamath Falls.

 

"One of the things I believe strongly in is that there needs to be an alternative for people to the really big  banks - and community banking is really built for these more rural markets where you are really involved in the local community - you're part of what's going on....and it really matters what happens there- where with some of the bigger banks- they just have a branch there and they don't really have roots in the communities."

 

The deal would also impact some customers in the Bend and Redmond area.  BOC would assume the AmericanWest customers, deposits and some loans of its Bend and Redmond branches.  The deal is pending approval by regulators and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year. 

 

Each of the three branches were PremierWest Bank  branches prior to acquisition by AmericanWest Bank earlier this year.

 

 

State Legislature Approves 16 Million in Funds for OSU Cascades Four Year Campus

State lawmakers approved 16 million in funding for the campus on the final day of the session on Monday.

 

Representative Jason Conger says it's a great development for central Oregon.

 

"It's definitely a huge economic driver, not just for the direct jobs, like the construction jobs, but also for potential employers being attracted to the area becuase we'll now have a four year university and the entrepreneurs that will want to be involved with a four year campus."

 

Conger says making OSU Cascades into a four year univeristy has been decades in the making, but the last couple years with all the community support, has really help make this a reality.

 

 

Mirror Pond Questionnaire To Wrap Up Later This Week

The "Mirror Pond Project" has been asking people to go to their website and say which of the four options they'd prefer.

 

They include doing nothing, doing similar dredging as in 1984, doing less dredging or removing the dam.

 

Mirror Pond Project Manager Jim Figurski was out at Drake Park on the 4th of July -- listening to people.

 

"Well the overview of what I've heard is the same split conversation, people who would like to see Mirror Pond to stay as it is and then there are the people who would like to see it return to a river state and I think there was a lot of concern how long the dam would stay and when it would be going."

 

Pacific Power has said it would not decide what it was going to do with the dam until after it heard from the people of Bend.

 

Figurski expects the Power Company to make a decision after the results of the questionnaire are made public after July 12th.

 

Figurski wil lbe presenting his findings to a joint meting of the Bend City Council and Bend Parks and Rec Baord on July 16th.

State Lawmakers Approve Legislation That Will Allow Young Life Camps to Expand in Eastern Oregon

The law will allow lands zoned exclusively for farm use in eastern Oregon to hold youth camps.

 

Young Life currenlty holds these youth camps on a ranch about an hour north of Madras, near Antelope.

 

Representative John Huffman was the sponsor of the bill that was designed to let Young Life, a Christian nonprofit, expand.

 

"Young Life typically can handle in the thousands in various summer camps.  But they've also branched out to some adult camps, so it's not just youth camps.  They're trying to open it up to visitors."

 

Huffman says the expansion will allow more economic devleopment in Deschutes and Jefferson County from the increased traffic from the camps.

Will Oregon's New Health Exchanges Be Affected by the Delay for Large Employers Regarding the Affordable Care Act

"Cover Oregon" is Oregon's new online marketplace for health coverage for people whose employers don't offer insurance or those seeking individual plans.

 

Lisa Morawski with "Cover Oregon" says the delay for large employers won't really affect them.

 

"In terms of Cover Oregon, we are just seeing smaller employers in our online marketplace, so it doens't have any imapct.  Smaller employers will still be able to shop and still have great options for small employers in Oregon."

 

Cover Oregon's website with its online health plans are on target to be up and running by October First.

 

The Obama Adminstiration's delay only aplies to the requirements for employers of 50 workers oremore.  None of the other requirements of the Affordable Care Act are being delayed.

Culver Voters Will Vote on School Bond That Failed in May Again in November

It lost by 60 votes.  But the school district plans to try again in November.

 

Culver Schools Superintendent Stephanie Garber says she's trying to meet with naysayers .. to convince them why the bond is needed.

 

"It is my hope that we join all the other communities and support our school bonds, so our kids have an equal opportunity to be in buildings that are safe and warm and adequate for them."

 

A citizens committee is being formed next month to look at whether to ask for the same amount, 9.8 million to upgrade deteriorating schools or to change the proposal.

Welding Sparks Trigger Terrebonne Fire

A brush fire near Terrebonne damaged a transmission line causing it to arc before shutting it down briefly last Friday.  

 

According to Fire Chief Chris Simmons with Redmond Fire and Rescue, crews responded to the fire off Northwest 43rd Street between Lower Bridge Way and Ice Avenue around 1:20 in the afternoon.  

 

With the help of the Crooked River Ranch Fire and Rescue and other responders, they were able to contain the fire to about 2 1/2 acres.  Officials believe the fire was triggered by sparks from welding equipment.

SUV Rams Into House

Around 3:30 Saturday morning, Bend Police get a call about a car colliding with a residence on southwest allen at Shevlin Hixon Drive.

 

35 year old Russell Campbell, 35, of Bend apparently lost control of his Toyota SUV, hitting the home on Southwest Allen.

 

Both the SUV and home sustain damage and a passenger in Campbell's car was taken to St. Charles Bend with injuries.  Speed and alcohol appear to be factors in the crash.

 

Campbell is lodged in the Deschutes County Jail on DUII, reckless driving and other charges.

Senate Passes House Bill 2013

The Oregon Senate voted and passes HB 2013 today.  

 

Governor John Kitzhaber says he applauds the Senate vote to  pass House Bill 2013.  He says the bill is a key element in his plan to create an accountable- integrated, local system to better connect early learning with health care, child care and kindergarten readiness.

 

The bill requires standardized screening and referral services for voluntary early learning systems and increases health services for children from zero to three years old.  

 

The bill is effective retro to July first 20-13.  Kitzhaber says he is looking forward to signing the bill.

Class Size Bill moving through Salem

State Senator Tim Knopp of Bend is sponsoring a bill that hopes to better track class size in Oregon. It passed in the senate and earlier in the House- State Representative Jason Conger of Bend is partnering with Knopp on the bill and says the class size data could be very useful.

 

"That's the idea to get a better picture of what's going on - and get a better understanding...impacting children's education..

 

Conger says the current data is more of an average that lumps everything together - so its tough to see what is really going on in specific classes - like math and science. It would also measure sizes in specific grades.

Oregon Senate Passes Clean Air Bill

In Salem, lawmakers are considering a bill that would study a carbon tax or other fees to offset air pollution in Oregon. The bill passed in the Senate on Wednesday and now is set to move on to the house. Senator Ja.ckie Dingfelder of Portland carried the bill:

 

"Colleagues- Oregon has been a leader in many areas- we don't sit back, we move toward innovation - this is what senate bill 306 does- it provides the necessary information to determine policy options and helps us address how we as a state will address climate change as we grow our economy."

 

It was mostly a partisan vote- the bill passed by 18 to 12 and only 2 Republicans supported it. Senator Tim Knopp of Bend voted against it.  

NEWSTALK 1110 KBND NOW HEARD ON FM

FOR LISTENERS WHO WOULD ALSO LIKE TO HEAR NEWSTALK 1110 KBND ON FM YOU CAN NOW TUNE IN TO 100.1 ON THE FM DIAL.

 

LET US KNOW HOW THE SIGNAL COMES IN WHERE YOU LIVE AND WORK.  THANKS FOR LISTENING!  LORI/1110 KBND NEWS

Bend Dentist Suffers Serious Mountain Biking Accident But Is Expected to Make A Full Recovery

Dr. John Frachella fell off a 15 foot cliff on his mountain bike in Douglas County last weekend.

 

He broke his neck in five places.   When he showed up at the St. Charles Emergency Room, they didn't think his injuries were that serious.

 

But his neurosurgeon, Dr. Kent Yundt did.

 

"And he said, I was in serious trouble, but he couldn't tell me what we were going to do next until he saw the Cat scan.  Then he said I need to have  surgery.  He said you are so unstable, you're a hair's breath from Chris Reeve."

 

Dr. Yundt convinced Dr. John as he's know, to undergo the surgery.  He now has a plate in his neck and is expected to make a full recovery.

 

He has to remain immobilized and quiet for the next three months, while he heals.

Local Reaction to Deadly Arizona Wildfire that Kills 19 Firefighters

Alex Robertson, a firefighter with the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service was in Colorado fighting that deadly wildfire with his fellow firefighters who died.

 

He said when he heard the news about the Arizona tragedy, he couldn't believe it.

 

"You know it hit me in the gut, as it probably hit everyone else.  I started getting text messages shortly after it happened.  I first thought, could it really be that bad.  It's just tragic.  You want to know what happened and how did it happen."

 

Robertson says it will be awhile before we know what happened to trap the Arizona firefighters.

 

Pets Don’t Like Hot Weather Either

With the sweltering heat, everyone looks to stay as cool as they can, and this includes your pets. 

 

The Humane Society of Central Oregon offers tips to help keep you pets healthy when the thermometer rises into these uncomfortable temperatures. 

 

If your pet is kept outside during the day, be sure there is adequate shade and access to water.  Remember that overweight dogs overheat quickly in hot weather. 

 

Exercise your dog early in the morning or after sundown when the pavement is cooler.

 

And remember: never leave your pet in a parked car, even with the windows cracked.  The internal temperature can easily reach 120 degrees in just a few minutes.

 

Truck beds are dangerous too.  They can become extremely hot; especially when parked in the sun.  Unsecured dogs can fall out of a truck bed into traffic. 

Cougar Sighting Prompts Warning

Two cougar cubs are spotted in a rural area of Deschutes County recently, so  the Sheriff's Office issues a warning. 

 

Sgt. Deke Demars says about 8:30 last Thursday morning, a resident living on Boones Borough Drive near Dale Road spotted the pair of cougar cubs in a yard.  They did not see any adults. 

 

Shortly after, the cougars disappeared.  Sheriffs deputies searched the area, but could not find them. 

 

They have issued a warning to residents:

 

*Do not to disturb the carcass of a dead animal, especially if you believe it was a cougar kill.

 

*Keep outside lighting "on" where livestock is present to deter cougar attacks.

 

*If there is a cougar sighting in your area,do not walk your dog at night. 

 

*If you encounter a cougar, walk away slowly, keeping the animal in view and notify 911 immediately.

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Hugh Hewitt
Hugh Hewitt
3:00am - 5:00am
The Hugh Hewitt Show

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